Adult Learners: The Benefits of Going Back to School
As an adult learner going back to school to earn a degree or to add to your credentials, you open new doors no matter what stage of life or career you’re in. At the same time, you might feel anxiety. You likely have more responsibilities, demands on your time, and financial pressures than you did when you were younger. As an adult learner, you might feel out of place on campus.
That said, the numbers tell a story of real value in lifelong learning. Going back to school to earn a degree can help you advance in your profession, successfully change careers, or have the know-how you need to succeed in starting your own business. Adult learners saw up to a 140% increase in their annual salaries, with the average annual gain being $7,500 a year over peers.
If you’re thinking of your next steps, it’s never too late. Many universities offer online, hybrid, and executive track degree and certificate programs. Here are some reasons to consider going back to school to earn your degree as an adult learner.
Higher Earning Power
Earning a degree pays off. According to a report by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, full-time, full-year workers with an associate degree earn $400,000 more over their careers than those with just a high school diploma. At $2.8 million in median lifetime earnings, workers with bachelor’s degrees can expect to pull in 75% more than their high school graduate counterparts. And master’s degree holders tack on another $400,000 with $3.2 million in median lifetime earnings, doubling the career earnings of full-time workers with only a high school education.
Advancement Within Your Current Career
Measuring your increased earning power is only part of the story when it comes to the value of going back to school. Adult learners tend to earn a degree or certificate for a specific career purpose that may not be measurable in income. Advancing to a higher role, making an advantageous lateral move, or adding to your job responsibilities in a rewarding way are other reasons why adult learners return to campus.
Changing Careers
When you earn a degree, you establish your credibility in a new career area, increasing your chances of getting hired. As an adult learner, going back to school shows your commitment and enthusiasm for a new career path. Beyond a career change, if you are starting a new business, you can earn a degree and acquire valuable knowledge, experience, and network contacts to enhance your chances of success.
Networking Opportunities
As an adult learner going back to school to earn a degree, you can open important doors for your next career steps. Professors act as mentors as much as instructors; they can connect you with industry contacts and opportunities. Many degree programs include career services and job-finding resources. You may be able to join professional associations at a discount. Alumni networks can also help you pivot careers or move forward in your current field. Some degree programs offer collaborative projects, mentorship opportunities, and internships that give you access to professional communities.
Personal Fulfillment
As an adult learner, you’re more likely to have the maturity and life experience to take full advantage of a degree or certificate program. Beyond career advancement and earning potential, many adult learners report enjoying the intellectual challenge, the inspiration of pursuing a long-held passion, and the pride of achieving a goal. The personal growth and sense of satisfaction you can feel when you earn a degree is every bit as important as the financial and professional advancement it affords.
Expanding Your Worldview
When you earn a degree or certificate, you expose yourself to new ideas, diverse perspectives, alternative ways of thinking, and exciting challenges. You interact with professors and classmates with different backgrounds and experiences. How you approach problems and make decisions will be enriched by your interactions in the classroom and with your academic community—on campus and online.
Start the Next Step in Your Career with Excelsior
Excelsior University has been serving adult learners for more than 50 years. We understand going back to school is a balancing act. That’s why our programs have flexible options, including eight-week and 15-week formats, as well as 100% online and hybrid learning formats. A generous transfer credit policy helps you earn your degree faster, taking into account previous coursework, military training, various certifications, and professional experience. We also offer financial aid, including scholarships and grants. With more than 40 degree and certificate programs in areas of study like business, health care, technology, and liberal arts, Excelsior is here to support your next steps and fulfill your aspirations.
Ready for more in your career and your life? Read more about tips for returning to college or contact our friendly admissions counselors to find out which Excelsior University degree program is right for you.
